Lawmakers approve a bill that seeks to end delays for special education services

The stories at a public hearing earlier this year were heartrending: Parents told of waiting months or even years for their children to receive the special education services they are entitled to.

This evening, lawmakers in the state House of Representatives passed a bill that aims to address the problem. The measure, approved unanimously, requires school districts to evaluate children for special education services without delay.

"This bill is for parents who find themselves in a very vulnerable position, a very scary position,'' House Republican Leader Lawrence Cafero said.

During a hearing before the legislature's education committee, some parents said their children had to wait for 18 months or two years for special education services.

Schools are already required by law to provide the services to children who qualify for them.